Did You Know?

Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Ohio along the Ohio River, Adams County is a region steeped in rich history and cultural significance. Established on July 10, 1797, the county was named in honor of President John Adams, who was serving as the second president of the United States at the time. As one of the earliest counties formed in the Northwest Territory, Adams County has played a unique role in Ohio’s development and the broader narrative of American frontier expansion.

Before European settlers arrived, the land that would become Adams County was home to various Indigenous peoples, most notably the Adena and Hopewell cultures. These ancient civilizations left behind remarkable earthworks and burial mounds, such as those preserved in Serpent Mound, a world-famous effigy mound thought to have been constructed over 1,000 years ago. Serpent Mound remains one of the county’s most iconic landmarks and a significant archaeological site, attracting visitors and researchers from around the globe.

European-American settlement in the area began in earnest after the American Revolution, when veterans and pioneers moved westward seeking new opportunities. The fertile land and proximity to the Ohio River made the area ideal for farming and trade. The county seat, West Union, was established in 1803, just as Ohio was gaining statehood, and quickly became a hub for government and commerce in the region.

Throughout the 19th century, Adams County’s economy was driven by agriculture, timber, and river trade. Small towns and villages grew, each with their own unique identities and contributions to the county’s development. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s helped open up markets and accelerate economic growth, although the county retained a predominantly rural and agricultural character.

Adams County also played a notable role in the Underground Railroad. With its position along the Ohio River—a boundary between slave-holding Kentucky and free Ohio—the county became an important passage for enslaved people seeking freedom in the North. Several residents of Adams County were known to have provided safe houses and assistance to fugitives, reflecting the region’s complex social and political climate in the years leading up to the Civil War.

In the 20th century, Adams County experienced the challenges and changes common to many rural American communities. The decline of traditional industries led to economic struggles, but the county has remained resilient. Tourism, particularly centered around natural attractions like Serpent Mound and the scenic beauty of the Appalachian foothills, has become increasingly important. Community efforts to preserve historical landmarks and celebrate the county’s heritage have helped maintain a strong sense of identity and pride.

Today, Adams County continues to balance tradition with progress. Its history—rich in ancient mystery, pioneer spirit, and quiet resilience—serves as both a foundation and an inspiration for future generations.